An Ergonomics Simulation Study of Patient Demands During Sit-to-Stand From a Recliner, Clinical Chair, and Bed System

The purpose of this study was to use ergonomics simulation methods, digital human modeling, and biomechanics software to assess the demands on patients when initiating sit-to-stand movements from a recliner, clinical chair, and bed system. A total of 6 device conditions (when adding in various seat pan tilts) were evaluated with each of 3 patient anthropometries (n = 18). Based on these simulations, we calculated the total ankle moments, necessary translations forward on the seat pan, hand forces on the armrests, and strength demands for the arm, lower limbs, and trunk. The main finding of this study was that the results were consistent with a previous study of caregiver demands and demonstrated the superiority of the clinical chair for reducing biomechanical demands during the initiation of the sit-to-stand movement without caregiver assistance.

Potvin J

Keywords: safe patient handling, patients, sit-to-stand, ergonomics, egress